Alesse and breast tenderness

When I first started taking Alesse I did have nausea for about one week. That was the least of my problems.
I became such a basket case! I cried at everything (both happy and sad movies) and wanted to hurt anyone around me (including myself). I actually felt suicidal at times, even though I'd never ever seriously consider it. This was extreme depression, despite being happier than ever with my boyfriend. It was so confusing. I would burst into tears randomly...and on the last day of taking the pill, (only two days ago!) I burst into tears in public. It was very embarrassing!
I gained ~10lbs during the first month. My appetite had no end to it. I pretty much had all the symptoms of pregnancy, minus breast tenderness. My Dr. scared me and told me I needed a pregnancy test. Luckily, I'm not pregnant.
I developed these painful, red bumps on my shins. At first it looked like bruises, now the Dr. says it's from the pill (but he wouldn't tell me what it was). Now I'm worried about blood clots and the like. I've heard of other women having these symptoms. So, it's not just me.
Finally, I had a lot of trouble sleeping at night. I'd wake up randomly, feeling as though I was high on caffeine, and not be able to relax for ~30mins afterwards. By the time the alarm went off, I was exhausted. I just had mono this past year, and losing sleep weakens me even more now.
Not only is Alesse totally wrong for me, but I'm changing doctors. If you know your symptoms are from the pill, find another one. It's NOT worth ruining your life. Thankfully my boyfriend is understanding!

I was on Alesse for years. I never remember any side effects in the beginning. But then I started having light , but continuous breakthrough bleeding. My nurse put me on Yasmine. At first I didn't realize I was haing side effects until they got worst: breast tenderness, weight gain, breast enlargement, extreme weakness, irritability, contact irritation. The side effects went away for the most part, but my boobs and hips are still much bigger. I am thinking about tryin Aleese again

I have been on alesse for a little over a month. I have experienced very little side effects and have been happy with this pill so far. I experienced some break through bleeding for about a week in the first month and some breast tenderness but that is all. The plus side, my period lasted two a half days-with very little cramps. No weight gain or mood swings.